Statement - Minister of Public Safety Updates on Passenger Protect Program

"We fully understand the frustration of law-abiding travelers whose plans are interrupted as a result of false positives arising in the security screening of airline passenger manifests. We have heard the concerns of those who have gone through additional security screening that this situation can cause confusion and feelings of stigmatization.

Public Safety Canada officials have now contacted air carriers to clarify the application of the existing Secure Air Travel Regulations, emphasizing to them that additional security screening validation is not required for individuals under the age of 18.

My department is also exploring possible regulatory amendments to the Secure Air Travel Regulations that would help differentiate individuals who have similar or the same names as individuals listed under the Passenger Protect Program.

Further to this, the government is committed to public consultations to ensure that our overall national security framework and procedures are effective in keeping Canadians safe, while also safeguarding our values in a free and democratic society. These consultations will include the Passenger Protect Program."

For further information: Scott Bardsley, Office of the Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, 613-995-6179; Media Relations, Public Safety Canada, ps.mediarelations-relationsaveclesmedias.sp@canada.ca